Ways and Means of Accessing Data on Trade in Services: A Comprehensive Guide

Abstract

International trade in services has grown significantly in both volume and growth. Services have become an integral part of international trade and economic growth at a global level. This research paper highlights the ways and means of accessing secondary data of services trade from authentic sources and portals. The paper examines the various aspects of services trade data, such as exports, imports, trade restrictions, policy issues, etc., of authentic sources and summarises these aspects for researchers and professionals working in the field. The paper systematically analyses datasets of such sources prepared by international and national bodies like the WTO, UNCTAD, IMF, OECD, World Bank, United Nations and ITC, among others and provides valuable inputs for accessing these datasets. This article also provides information on datasets available with Indian bodies and regulatory authorities such as RBI, MoSPI, DGCI&S etc. which are essential for research and analysis of various aspects of services trade. A researcher or professional must keep this comprehensive guide into consideration before or while doing research in services trade.